The Los Angeles Kings have acquired star winger Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers, effectively ending speculation about potential trades involving Vancouver Canucks players. The trade, which occurred on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, saw the Kings send prospect Liam Greentree and a conditional third-round draft pick to the Rangers in exchange for the 34-year-old Panarin.
Panarin has also signed a two-year contract extension with the Kings, worth $11 million per season, ensuring his presence in Los Angeles through the 2027-28 season. This move signifies a major commitment from the Kings and addresses their need for offensive firepower as they push for a playoff spot. Prior to the trade, the Kings were sitting just outside of a wild card spot in the Western Conference.
The acquisition of Panarin brings an end to rumors linking several Canucks players to potential trades. The Canucks, who are currently in a rebuilding phase, have a few veterans to trade in order to acquire as much draft stock and young talent as they can get. With the Kings securing Panarin, one potential suitor for Canucks' talent has been removed from the equation.
Before being traded, Panarin had an impressive season with the Rangers, scoring 19 goals and 38 assists for 57 points in 52 games. He was also leading the Rangers in assists, points, power-play assists and shots on goal. Throughout his NHL career, Panarin has consistently demonstrated his offensive prowess, and the Kings are banking on him to provide a significant boost to their scoring.
The Rangers had held Panarin out of the lineup since January 26, anticipating a trade. The Kings were reportedly Panarin's preferred destination, and the trade included a contract extension to keep him in Los Angeles. The Rangers are retaining 50% of Panarin's contract through the 2025-2026 season. According to The Athletic's Vince Z. Mercogliano, the Rangers will receive the better of the Kings’ two 2026 third-round picks in the deal. If the Kings win a playoff round, the pick becomes a 2026 second-round pick; if they win two playoff rounds, they will also send the Rangers a 2028 fourth-round pick.
The Kings' general manager, Ken Holland, described the trade as "perhaps the best deal this franchise has executed in some time". The move was completed shortly before the NHL's roster freeze for the Winter Olympics. Panarin is expected to make his debut for the Kings after the Olympic break, with the Kings hosting the Vegas Golden Knights on February 25.
While the Panarin trade impacts the market for Canucks players, Vancouver still has other veterans who may be on the move. Elias Pettersson remains the most interesting case, as if he waives his no-trade clause, the entire league will be calling.